Imphal Archbishop Canonically Erects St. Claret Parish, Lungthulien, Manipur, Blesses its Presbytery

Lungthulien, Manipur, Sept. 23, 2025: Archbishop Linus Neli, D.D., Archbishop of Imphal, canonically erected St. Claret Parish, Lungthulien, located in Manipur's Pherzawl district, and blessed its newly constructed presbytery during a ceremony held on 21 September 2025, at the parish premises. A large number of clergy, religious and laity from the region attended the ceremony. Claretian Missionaries of the Northeast India Province manage the parish.

After canonically erecting the parish and blessing its presbytery, Archbishop Neli presided over a solemn Holy Eucharistic Celebration inside the parish. Fr. Joseph Mappilaparambil, C.M.F., Provincial Superior, Claretian Missionaries of Northeast India, concelebrated the Mass alongside the archbishop.

During the Holy Mass, 18 children received their First Holy Communion, and 11 candidates were confirmed, reinforcing their commitment to the Catholic faith. The event also highlighted ecumenical harmony, as members from various Christian denominations participated, reflecting a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony and a community meal, fostering fellowship among parishioners and visitors alike.

The St. Claret Mission at Lungthulien, inaugurated on November 16, 2022, by Major Superior Fr. Pius Thuruthiyil, C.M.F., and blessed by Archbishop Dominic Lumon, the then Archbishop of Imphal, focuses on evangelisation, education, and vital social services, including healthcare and disaster relief, particularly for those affected by regional conflicts.

The Claretian Missionaries, who first served in Manipur in the 1950s, resumed their ministry in the region in 2022, leading to the official establishment of the Northeast India Province of the Claretians in 2023. Their recent initiatives include the erection of St. Thomas Parish at Laipharok Maring Village and the inauguration of St. Claret School at Lamzang Village. 

The canonical erection of St. Claret Parish, Lungthulien, underscores the growing presence of the Church in Manipur and the Claretians’ enduring dedication to nurturing faith-filled and resilient communities in challenging contexts.

By Tungthang Zou

Download the Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates:

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download